A positive Romberg test suggests that the ataxia is sensory in nature, that is, depending on loss of proprioception.

Watch the movement of the body in relation to a perpendicular object behind the subject (corner of the room, door, or window).

The basis of this test is that balance comes from the combination of several neurological systems, namely proprioception, vestibular input, and vision.

The main sensory inputs are: Crucially, the brain can obtain sufficient information to maintain balance if any two of the three systems are intact.

Similar to the sensory organization test, the visual pathway would then be removed by closing the eyes.

But if proprioception is defective, two of the sensory inputs will be absent and the patient will sway then fall.

Similar to the Romberg Test, the patient must stand unsupported with eyes closed and hands on hips for 30 seconds.

Nonetheless, test instructions do not specify which foot, preferred or non-preferred, should be placed in front of the other.

A positive Romberg's test which will show wide base gait in patients with back pain has been shown to be 90 percent specific for lumbar spinal stenosis.